Ask the Coach - October 9th
By: Merrill Pierce
Happy Thanksgiving — Taking Time to Appreciate Those Who Help Make Our Businesses a Success
A message from a local business leader to his team and community
This year, like many before it, has brought its share of challenges.
Economic uncertainty, shifting market demands, and the ongoing balancing act between personal and professional responsibilities have tested our resilience and patience.
It is easy to be grateful when things are going well — but sincere gratitude is tested during tough times.
Many of you reading this are feeling those challenges firsthand. Yet Thanksgiving reminds us that gratitude matters most when it’s hardest to find.
A year ago, I wrote about gratitude in the marketplace and said that appreciation should be part of how we do business every day — not just once a year.
That still holds true today, even more so.
Recognizing the Value of Community Support
First, I’m deeply thankful for the incredible support of our local community.
In an era when large chains and online retailers dominate, the loyalty and encouragement we receive from our customers are both inspiring and humbling.
Each sale, review, and referral is more than just a transaction — it is a vote of confidence in what we do.
It reminds us that we’re not just running a business; we’re part of a community that values connection and mutual support.
Appreciating the Dedication of Our Team
Our team is the backbone of everything we do.
Their creativity, adaptability, and dedication have carried us through this year’s challenges.
I’m immensely grateful for their hard work and positive spirit.
Their commitment not only drives our business forward — it also creates a workplace that feels like a second home.
Learning from Challenges
This year has been a teacher.
Every obstacle has brought lessons in resilience, innovation, and adaptability.
These experiences have made our business stronger and, personally, have helped me grow as a leader.
I’m grateful for those lessons — even the hard ones — because they remind us that growth often comes through struggle.
The Gift of Giving Back
In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, our business has found joy in giving back to the community that supports us.
Whether it’s sponsoring local events, joining charity drives, or lending a hand when it’s needed, these moments of connection are among the most meaningful parts of what we do.
We’re fortunate to have so many outstanding non-profit organizations in our community — and we’re proud to support as many as we can.
Cherishing Personal Growth
Finally, on a personal note, being a small business owner is one of the greatest teachers of all.
The highs and lows have made me more resilient, more appreciative, and more grounded.
There are lessons you can’t learn in a classroom, a webinar, or a book — you must live them.
And for that experience, I’m profoundly grateful.
(Special thanks to M. Turner for sharing his inspiring letter.)
“Gratitude isn’t only about recognizing the good times — it’s about finding meaning in the hard ones.”
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let’s remember that gratitude means appreciating the people who stand beside us, the lessons that shape us, and the small victories that move us forward.
To my fellow business owners, our loyal customers, friends, and family — thank you for being part of this journey.
Here’s to embracing gratitude — not just on Thanksgiving, but every day of the year.
Best,
Merrill
